Daily read · Gift ideas
Christmas gifts for a music lover who takes it everywhere: three portable speakers
Three current portable Bluetooth speakers for Christmas, from a floating pocket speaker to an all-day party pick, with who each suits and what to check.
Maya · Present Finder
Choose the JBL for marathon playlists, the Bose for refined sound on adventures and the WONDERBOOM for splashy fun. Compare prices on PriceHaggle AI before you buy.
Looking for a Christmas gift for a music lover who is always on the move? A rugged, waterproof portable speaker is a brilliant answer. Here are three current models, each sold new on Amazon UK when we checked today, matched to the kind of person who will get the most from them.
Pick 1: for the all-day party host
The JBL Charge 6 · Blue is the one for someone who keeps the music going from lunch until late. JBL quotes up to 24 hours of playtime plus 4 more with Playtime Boost, and says 10 minutes of charging gives up to 150 minutes of play. It has a built-in powerbank to top up a phone, an IP68 dust and water rating and a removable carry strap.
Pick 2: for the weekend explorer who wants polished sound
The Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Bluetooth Speaker (2nd Gen) · Black suits a walker, camper or paddleboarder who cares about sound quality. Bose rates it IP67, says it floats, and quotes up to 12 hours of battery. PositionIQ adjusts the sound whether it stands up, lies flat or hangs from its loop, and it can stay connected to two devices at once.
Pick 3: for the beach, pool or shower singer
The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 4 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker · Black · WONDERBOOM 4 is the small, fun pick. Ultimate Ears quotes 14 hours of playtime, an IP67 rating, drop-testing from 1.5 metres and a design that floats. It plays 360-degree sound, has an Outdoor Boost button and a Podcast mode for clearer voices.
Quick answers
Which has the longest battery? Of these three, the JBL, at up to 28 hours in total by JBL's figures.
Can two speakers play together? Yes. All three can pair with a second compatible speaker from the same brand for bigger or stereo sound.
Is a charger included? Not with the Bose or JBL. Bose includes a USB-C cable but no power adaptor, and JBL lists no charging cable in the box.
Save yourself a surprise
Your quick buying checklist
- Match the size to the trip: pocket-sized for walks, larger for garden parties.
- Check the box contents and whether they already own a USB-C charger.
- Buy from a seller with a clear returns window that covers Christmas.
Further information
- JBL Charge 6 · Blue — View on Amazon*
- Bose SoundLink Flex Portable Bluetooth Speaker (2nd Gen) · Black — View on Amazon*
- Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 4 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker · Black · WONDERBOOM 4 — View on Amazon*
*Affiliate link: we may earn a commission if you buy.
References & editorial notes
This content is based on the sources listed below.
AI-generated information drawn from public sources. Not to be treated as any form of advice. Check details with the retailer before buying.